Symptoms of narcolepsy

Not everyone with narcolepsy experiences the same symptoms. Some experience them regularly, while others are less frequently affected.

Symptoms may develop slowly over a number of years, or suddenly over the course of a few weeks.

Narcolepsy is usually a long-term (chronic) condition, although some of the symptoms may improve as you get older.

You should make an appointment to see your GP if you think you may have narcolepsy so they can determine what's causing your symptoms. If necessary, you'll be referred to a sleep disorder specialist, who can confirm the diagnosis.

Cataplexy attacks are usually triggered by an emotion, such as excitement, laughter, anger or surprise. Attacks can last from a few seconds to several minutes.

Some people with narcolepsy have cataplexy attacks once or twice a year, while others experience them several times a day. In an attempt to avoid attacks, some people may become emotionally withdrawn and socially isolated.

Sleep paralysis

Some people with narcolepsy experience episodes of sleep paralysis. This is a temporary inability to move or speak that occurs when waking up or falling asleep.

The episodes can last from a few seconds to several minutes. Although sleep paralysis doesn't cause any harm, being unable to move can be frightening.

Other symptoms

As well as the symptoms described above, narcolepsy can cause a number of other symptoms, including:

hallucinations – seeing or hearing things that aren't real, particularly when going to sleep or waking up; a presence in the bedroom is the most commonly reported hallucination